Interpretation of Statutes, Deeds & Documents

Core concepts

1. 01Primary rules: literal (grammatical), golden, mischief (Heydon's), purposive.
2. 02Aids to construction — internal (preamble, headings) and external (history, dictionaries).
3. 03Doctrine of ejusdem generis: general words limited to same class as specific.
4. 04Doctrine of noscitur a sociis: meaning known by association.
5. 05Strict construction for penal & taxing statutes; liberal for beneficial legislation.

Exam-critical pointers

• ⭐Ut res magis valeat quam pereat — construction giving effect preferred over destroying effect.
• ⭐Tax statute: in case of ambiguity, benefit to assessee (Vodafone, but post-2017 SC reversed for exemption notifications).
• ⭐Beneficial construction: workmen / consumer protection / welfare legislation.
• ⭐Marginal notes are not aids unless reflecting clear intent.